Zannone

An uninhabited nature reserve

Part of the Pontine or Ponziane Archipelago, it is the northernmost of all and one of the smallest. The island of Zannone is a nature reserve of the Circeo National Park and, apart from the forest rangers who live there all year round, it is completely deserted. It was once frequented by the ancient Greeks and Romans, who called it Sinonia, and even earlier by Homo Sapiens.

Zannone boasts rich Mediterranean vegetation that provides a safe stop for thousands of migratory birds, is home to a small colony of mouflon and a species of lizard that only exists here, the Podarcis siculus patrizii. Enjoy an atmospheric walk to admire the ruins of the abandoned Cistercian monastery and the remains of the Roman fishpond carved into the rock.

Passing through the forest, you will then reach a belvedere with a breathtaking view of Ponza and Palmarola. The Island of Zannone can be visited by booking an excursion at the Circeo National Park Management in Sabaudia.